Arizona, with its exceptionally beautiful, mild winters, has countless outdoors events each January through March while the rest of the country moves indoors in the cold. We’ve made a list of just a fraction of our favorites coming during 2023 that are a short distance from Lake Pleasant in Peoria.

1. Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction (Jan. 21-29, 2023)

The Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale attracts auto enthusiasts from far and wide to an array of unique vintage and modern cars. If you are a car junkie, this is an event you won’t want to miss. We recommend buying your tickets in advance. Location: Westworld of Scottsdale 16601 N. Pima Road Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Tickets: All Session Passes, $77 -$193 + fees, Tickets

2. Russo & Steele Collector Automobile Auction (Jan. 26-30, 2023)

From European sports cars to American muscle cars to hot rods and even custom cars, you’ll find it all at the Russo & Steele Collector Automobile Auction. Russo & Steele has created an in-the-round configuration for ample viewing from everywhere in the venue. Location: Off Loop 101 at Scottsdale Road 18555 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Tickets: $30

3. Scorpion Bay Marina at Lake Pleasant (year-round)

Scorpion Bay Marina at Lake Pleasant is a perfect spot to relax on the water or enjoy dinner with scenic views year-round. Scorpion Bay offers boat and water-sport rentals and features Scorpion Bay Grill with delicious food options for everyone in the family. Paqua park, the inflatable water obstacle course at Scorpion Bay, and fishing are also popular spring activities at Lake Pleasant. Location: 10970 W. Peninsula Blvd. Peoria, AZ 85383 Cost: Varies upon activities

4. Waste Management Phoenix Open (Feb. 6-12, 2023)

The Waste Management Phoenix Open, known as “The People’s Open,” has become a winter staple in Arizona for tourists and locals alike. The four-day attendance of this professional golf tournament usually is about a half-million, making it the best-attended event on the PGA Tour – and arguably the biggest party, as well. Whether you want to follow specific golfers from hole to hole or spend your day at the stadium-like par 3 16th hole, which is the hub of the happenings, you are sure to have the time of your life. The tournament host Thunderbirds started construction mid-September to build the luxurious hospitality suites, Stadium Stretch, Coliseum at 16, newly renovated Talking Stick Resort Fan Zone, grandstands and bleachers that are seen at every WM Phoenix Open. Location: TPC Scottsdale 17020 N. Hayden Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Tickets: $50 Wed, Thurs, Fri; $75 Friday and Saturday; Free admission on Mon. and Tues. courtesy of Ford Free Days

5. AZ Super Bowl LVII Community Events (January – February 12)

The Big Game returns to Arizona February 12, but leading up to it there are numerous free and interactive community events. Starting with a 5K-9 Run on January 7 at Riverview Park in Mesa, to tailgate parties, concert series, fan experience and culminating with an official Watch Party on game day. Additionally, a number of community projects are in planning across Arizona, including beautification projects, habitat restoration, a student STEAM program, youth football clinics, and more. Check the full schedule of Valley events. Location: Glendale and across Arizona Cost: Free

6. Major League Baseball Spring Training (February-March)

Arizona's warm weather makes it the ideal spot for spring training, known as the Cactus League, for 15 Major League Baseball teams every February through March. There are ballparks from one side of metro Phoenix to the other so that America’s pastime can be enjoyed no matter where you are. You won’t want to miss an opportunity to spend a day with baseball, hotdogs and loved ones. Check out your favorite ballpark for individual schedules. Ticket details will be determined soon. Location: Multiple locations. Tickets: Varies by team

7. Hiking (year-round)

Another wonderful winter outdoor activity for you to enjoy across Arizona is the abundance of mountains and hiking trails. After the scalding hot summers, winter and spring are welcome and ideal times to go on a hike in the Valley. From Camelback Mountain to Black Mountain Trail to Superstition Mountain, there are a wide range of options for every level of hiker. The Maricopa County Parks & Recreation Department also offers ongoing complimentary guided hikes in and around Lake Pleasant. Location: Throughout the Valley Cost: Free

Scorpion Bay is Arizona’s premier floating playground, offering everything from daily pontoon and ski boat rentals to slips for harboring your yacht (or dinghy). Come for the fishing or come for the frolicking—either way, incredible mountain views, fantastic dining and world-class marina services await less than an hour out of Phoenix. https://www.scorpionbayaz.com/